The network and "X Factor" producers FremantleMedia North American and Syco TV didn't offer any details on the decision in a brief joint statement. But Cole's official ouster followed weeks of reports that she might be off the show.

Among the possible reasons rumored: her lack of chemistry with fellow judges L.A. Reid, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell, who is also the show's creator. Cole was a judge on the original British "The X Factor," and it's unclear whether she'll return to that program.